Water is becoming increasingly valuable – and in many places, more expensive. Anyone who owns a garden can not only protect the environment but also save real money with a simple measure: collecting and using rainwater. Whether for watering plants, the lawn, or cleaning garden furniture – rainwater is free and versatile.
In this guide, you will learn how to use rainwater effectively, what options are available, and why a rain barrel or cistern is worth it in the long run.
Why collect rainwater?
Every year, thousands of liters of rainwater flow unused off roofs and gutters into the sewer system. Yet, this water is excellent for many tasks around the house.
The advantages at a glance:
- saves drinking water
- lowers water costs
- protects the environment
- supplies plants with low-lime water
- reduces the load on the sewer system during heavy rain
Especially in summer, when plants need a lot of water, using rainwater pays off quickly.
What can rainwater be used for?
Rainwater is suitable for many areas in the household and garden.
It is particularly useful for:
Garden irrigation
Flowers, vegetable patches, shrubs, and lawns benefit from rainwater. It contains significantly less lime than tap water and is better tolerated by many plants.
Raised beds and balcony plants
Balcony boxes and raised beds can also be easily watered with collected rainwater.
Potted plants in particular reward this with vigorous growth.
Garden cleaning
Rainwater is excellent for:
- Cleaning patios
- Cleaning garden furniture
- Rinsing off garden tools
- Washing flower pots
Car washing
Cars can also be washed easily with rainwater. Since it is low in lime, there are often fewer water spots on the paint.
What options are there for collecting rainwater?
1. Rain barrel
The classic rain barrel is the simplest solution.
Benefits:
- inexpensive purchase
- easy installation
- ideal for small gardens
- various sizes available
A roof area of just 50 square meters can provide several hundred liters of water during a heavy downpour.
2. Rainwater tank
For larger properties, above-ground water tanks are a good option. They store significantly more water than a rain barrel and are particularly suitable for large gardens.
3. Cistern
An underground cistern is the most comfortable solution.
Benefits:
- several thousand liters of storage volume
- water stays cool
- hardly any space required in the garden
- ideal for larger households
Depending on the equipment, the water can even be used for toilet flushing or the washing machine. However, this requires appropriate technical systems.
How much money can you save with rainwater?
The amount of savings depends on the size of the garden and water consumption. Anyone who regularly waters their garden in summer can save several thousand liters of drinking water every year. This not only protects the wallet but also valuable resources. Especially during longer dry periods, a well-filled rain barrel pays off quickly.
Storing rainwater correctly
To keep the water clean for as long as possible, you should keep a few points in mind:
- cover the rain barrel
- use leaf filters in the gutter
- clean the container regularly
- if possible, do not let water sit for months
A cover also prevents mosquitoes from breeding in the water.
Which plants like rainwater?
Almost all garden plants benefit from it.
Rainwater is particularly suitable for:
- Hydrangeas
- Rhododendrons
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Strawberries
- Roses
- Herbs
Houseplants also often tolerate low-lime rainwater better than hard tap water.
Common mistakes when collecting rainwater
You should avoid these mistakes:
- open rain barrels without a lid
- dirty gutters
- never cleaning the container
- using water for drinking purposes
Important:Rainwater should not be used as drinking water without appropriate treatment.
FAQ: Using rainwater
Is rainwater better for plants?
Yes. Rainwater is usually lower in lime than tap water and is better absorbed by many plants.
Are you allowed to use rainwater in the garden?
Yes. Watering with rainwater is explicitly sensible and environmentally friendly.
Is a rain barrel worth it?
For most garden owners, definitely yes. Even a simple rain barrel can replace several hundred to a thousand liters of drinking water every year.
Conclusion
Collecting and using rainwater is an easy way to lower water costs while simultaneously relieving the burden on the environment. Whether with a rain barrel, a water tank, or a cistern – even small measures help to save valuable drinking water.
Garden owners in particular benefit from low-lime rainwater and sustainable irrigation. Once you start, you will quickly realize: rain is not only good for nature but also for your wallet.
Photo by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
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